#Usually I just use Safari and Woodland for those | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

delaneypeter · 4 years

Text

Virginia's Tree, Story Behind the Fine Art Print

The low rumble of thunder in the distance sounded the arrival of the first storms of summer. Bolts of lightning danced across the skies. The clouds were a Velvia purple and spread out across the western sky. The mood in the Masai reserve was electrifying, the air tingled with anticipation of the first rains, from time to time, the low sun in the east would filter through the rain clouds. Our safari vehicle bounced along the dusty roads. We were five, me, our driver Benson, who suffered from selective hearing, I believe this was a learnt skill as he had three wives.

A husband and wife from Belgium, today I was their wildlife photography tutor. It was our second trip together. I enjoyed their company and passion for wildlife photography. Our fifth guest is known to all us from the "Big Screen." I was more than slightly star-struck. The previous day she had given a presentation on her lifework, the Born Free Foundation or as Virginia like to call it, the Born Free Family. Yes, the beautiful, gifted and passionate lady sitting next to me was none other, Virginia McKenna, the actress who starred with her husband in the lovely movie "Born Free". In the autumn of her life, eyes sparkling, a captivating aura and full of energy. Virginia is still the voice, of the voiceless, the ever-diminishing wildlife on our troubled planet. After decades of standing firmly and resolute against institutions, governments, individuals her resolve has not waivered, her determination and passion shine brightly for all to see.

Benson, our driver, wakes me from my reverie, Lions! I could hear the murmur of excitement grow from my guests, I said, let's go. Off we went in a hail of mud, and grass as Benson manoeuvred the 4x4 expertly from one muddy swamp to the next, then we started to climb towards a woodland, as we entered the wood, it was eerily quiet, dappled light and the smell of crushed mint filled our senses. As we exited the forest, the scent of mint was replaced by the putrid smell of a hippo carcass. Vultures were in attendance in large numbers, Egyptian, Hooded, Lappet-faced, White-backed and even the Ruperts. The lions were as I suspected, asleep, lying flat in the shade of some trees. Still, my guests were happy just to come across these elusive predators.

I turned to the occupants with me, and with all the persuasiveness I could muster, I said, "Let us leave the lions, for now, photographically there is nothing of note here". The ladies present were happy as I could see the lingering smell of death was affecting them. A few days previously, I had noticed a magnificent specimen of a tree, a shepherds tree, on a hill close by, I decided this would make a perfect subject with the impending storm as a dramatic backdrop. Once we arrived at the location, I directed Benson to the best position to photograph the tree, then explained to my guests my intentions of photographing this magnificent tree against the beautiful storm clouds.

Usually, tripods would be the order of the day, but we were in a "Big Five" game reserve, getting out of our vehicle was a non-starter. With the strong winds, we were better protected photographing from the 4x4, using bean bags or even hand-holding. I am Fujifilm X-photographer, oddly I found myself holding a Hasselblad X1D2 and composing the amazing tree against the dramatic storm clouds in the Hasselblads viewfinder. How did this come about? A lovely gentleman, now a good friend called Pablo, and I chatted over coffee that morning about cameras. Pablo is an excellent photographer and a collector of medium format cameras. When Pablo opened his aluminium case, my heart skipped a beat at the contents. He knew I was using Fujifilm GFX 100, although mine is a pre-production camera belonging to Fujifilm South Africa, Pablo had the GFX100, 50R and a shiny wonderfully engineered Hasselblad X1D2. He saw the sparkle in my eyes and kindly offered the camera to me for the day, out of politeness, I declined, but at lunchtime, he offered again. This time my curiosity got the better of me, I accepted.

While photographing, I was explaining to my guests my thought process and settings. It was then I turned to Virginia and said, "I can't help but a draw a comparison of the tree standing firm against the impending storm and the battles you fight on behalf of our wildlife against those who seek to destroy for profit or pleasure." Virginia's eyes smiled and sparkled; the heavens opened, and the deluge turned our field into a swamp.

Benson jumped outside and began to batten down the canvas hatches, we all helped, and within a few minutes, the 4x4 was crawling its way back to a road. We eventually found a thatch structure that we could park underneath. As we sipped our gin and tonics, we recounted the afternoons' beautiful experiences and which was our highlight. For me, sitting next to Virginia Mckenna and photographing "Virginia's tree." against the most amazing African storm I had ever seen, will be forever engrained in my memory. I turned on my camera and took a quick peek. I smiled, looked up, held my glass out. Slainte, and Virginia replied "Slainte, as our glasses clinked, thunder rang out, and lightning danced all around.

#Virginias's Tree #Story behind the fine art print

0 notes

tagamark · 5 years

Text

The Flying Lions of Busanga Plains

New Post has been published on https://tagasafarisafrica.com/africa-travel-news/fauna-and-flora/the-flying-lions-of-busanga-plains/

The Flying Lions of Busanga Plains

During the dry winter season, most of Zambia is on fire. Local people living in rural areas set the dry grassland alight, so that when the summer rains arrive, their cattle can graze on the succulent new growth.

The smoke from the fires casts a drab veil over everything. It’s a thin grey soup that fills the air up to 3 000 metres.

Sunrise view from the hot-air balloon – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

We were flying in a small four-seater plane from the town of Livingstone near Victoria Falls, and were headed north to Busanga Plains in the north of Kafue National Park. Our little plane bounced around on the thermals like a drunken bumblebee.

Kafue in central-west Zambia is just over 22 000 square kilometres. Created in 1924, it’s surrounded by so-called game management areas of another 43 000 square kilometres. At more than 6 million hectares, the area is one of the biggest wild places on the continent.

Flock of white storks – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Our flight was during the middle of the day. The hot sun and smoky air quickly evaporated any of the romance of flying low over an African wilderness in a small plane.

The miombo woodland below seemed endless, even relentless; kilometer after kilometer of Brachystegia trees that had shed their leaves, waiting with unending patience for the summer thunderstorms that will arrive in November, when everything will turn verdant again.

And then, as our bumblebee dropped down out of the dreary haze, Busanga revealed herself to us. I forgot about the heat, dust and smoke, and pushed my nose up against the small window and stared out, entranced.

Early morning at Shumba – – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Busanga’s Wildlife Experience

I’d heard good things about Busanga from others who knew her well. Her reputation was tantalizing, but this was unlike anything I’d seen before in Southern Africa.

Hippos fighting over the receding waters. Newton explained that one of these was a female who wanted to get to her calf, which was nearby. But the male wouldn’t let her pass for some reason. Note the nonchalance of the jacana and little egret in the foreground – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Extending for about 600 square kilometres, the grassy flats of Busanga are an exception to the rule of miombo woodland in Kafue. The Lufupa River, a tributary of the Kafue River, sustains the vast fertile grasslands in this northern sector of the park.

In summer these plains flood, leaving only islands here and there. In winter, the waters recede to reveal massive open grasslands, known as “dambos”. Like veins and arteries pumping blood through the body of a thoroughbred, the narrow water channels spread out across Busanga, where thousands (and thousands) of red lechwe and puku antelope come to graze.

Usually rare in Southern Africa, roan antelope are common in Kafue – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Within half an hour of landing on the small airstrip, and being plonked onto a game-viewing vehicle, we were surrounded by hordes of these antelope, which dotted the plains in huge numbers.

Kafue has 20 antelope species, the most of any park on the continent. We drove past herds of sable and roan antelope, usually rare in Africa, but relatively common in Kafue. We spotted several groups of oribi, which surely get the prize for being the daintiest, prettiest of them all.

As one of the males crosses the plains, red lechwe keep careful watch – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Over the next few days, my guides Newton Mulenga and Isaac Kalio introduced me to the wonders of Busanga. We found a Cape clawless otter foraging in a channel of water, near to two fighting hippos. At dusk, a spotted hyena came cantering past us, intent on its nocturnal mission for food. We regularly came across flocks of fifty or more crowned cranes, and several pairs of wattled cranes.

The water channels are clear to see from the air…these swell to flood the plains almost totally in summer – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

One evening, just after enjoying a cold beer under a blazing red sky, we saw a serval, stalking in the grass just thirty metres from us. We followed it and almost drove right past it, as it hunkered down. It stood up, scampered off, then stopped and looked back at us for a few seconds before melting into the blackness.

Flying Lions of Busanga

The two six-month old male cubs. Doing what cubs do – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

And then there were the lions. On the first morning at Busanga Bush Camp, the local pride passed through the unfenced camp. I didn’t see them, but as I walked out my tent, I could see fresh lion tracks everywhere on the soft, sandy substrate.

Then I heard shouting and screaming. Soon after I learnt that two six-month old cubs had started scratching playfully on the canvas of one of the safari tents, to the consternation of the sleepy guest inside who got the fright of his life. The barrel-chested Newton came to the rescue, chuckling, shouting and waving his arms at the cubs, chasing them away.

Who says animals don’t understand what fun is? If you’ve ever watched lion cubs, all they want to do is have fun! – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

For two days we followed the pride across the plains as they crisscrossed their kingdom: two big males in their prime, plus a sensuous lioness and those same scoundrel cubs, which had scared the hell out of the poor guest in his tent. They were full of trouble, stalking their mom and the two big males, jumping on them and causing havoc wherever they went.

My camera worked over time. The lions posed like models at a fashion show, staring into the distance at the lechwe and puku which kept well away. When the big cats came to the narrow water channels on the plains, they’d launch themselves through the air, manes flowing backwards, clearing the water like unlikely ballet dancers at an opera.

A hunter turned photographer called Francois d’Elbee wrote and photographed a beautiful book about Busanga, called simply “Busanga”. HIs photos of the lions here inspired me to do justice in my own way, photographically, to these icons of Africa – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Busanga is breathtaking, mind-blowing stuff for anyone who loves Africa and its wildlife: the uncluttered horizons, the endless plains, the thousands of antelope and the jumping lions. We were alone mostly, and witness to all of it, with just one or two other game-viewing vehicles on the plains.

Wilderness Safaris operate two small, spectacular camps – the more basic, yet still comfortable Busanga Bush Camp and the larger, more luxurious Shumba Camp. (I prefer Busanga, as it’s smaller, simpler and more connected to the surrounding wilderness).

The accommodation, food and service at both camps hits just the right note. My guides – Newton at Busanga, and Isaac at Shumba – are brilliant : they love what they do, and they want nothing more than to share their wilderness with their guests.

How’s that flowing mane? How can anyone shoot an animal like this? – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

One morning, as the other vehicles headed back for breakfast after their morning drive, Isaac asked me whether I wanted to skip breakfast and stay with the lions. Of course! We ended up spending seven hours with the big cats. That’s how I like to spend my days: thank you, Isaac.

After a day, I’d already resolved to come back here soon, to spend several weeks, perhaps months, absorbing Busanga into every cell of my body. I was spellbound.

Floating Over The Plains

And then on the last morning, like some goofy, clichéd climax, we were whisked away into the sky on a hot-air balloon, floating low over the plains and the woodlands, where fish-eagles perched on the treetops, throwing their heads back as they called to their mates.

Early morning flight in Eric Heseman’s hot air balloon. One of my most memorable experiences of recent times – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Depending on the weather and the wind, all guests get a chance to ride on the balloon. You’re in safe hands. Owner and operator Eric Hesemans has been doing this his whole adult life, mostly in Namibia, but more recently in Busanga.

Eric told me how he’d become good mates with famous Brazilian photographer Sebastiao Salgado, who a few years ago had flown with Eric over Busanga every morning for several weeks, taking aerial photographs. Salgado has spent the last few years documenting the wildest places on the planet. Busanga cleary made an impression.

“Sebastiao loved it here,” Eric told me. Of course he did.

A hippo on his home turf… – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Below us, large pods of hippos grunted in the water channels, and all those lechwe and puku looked up at us. We were hovering so close to them that I could see the sunrise reflecting in their big amber eyes. As I write these words, I just want to be back in Busanga.

Beauty at Risk

But for all the serendipitous natural wonder of Busanga, this wild beauty is on a knife-edge. Like so many other wilderness areas in Africa, it’s wildlife and habitat face serious challenges.

Throughout the days and nights while I was there, bush fires raged on the horizons. As part of their traditional fishing rights, locals are allowed into the park to fish in the rivers, and they set the land alight to rid lions of their cover in the grassland, and to keep elephants away. Satellite images show that up to 80% of the park burns ever year. (When the park was established, most of the Nkoya people were evicted from their land, and their fishing rights are a key source of livelihood and protein).

The water channels are clear to see from the air…these swell to flood the plains almost totally in summer – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

While fire is a necessary and natural ecological occurrence in savanna, if the land burns too often it can reduce species diversity, and eventually disrupt the balance of the whole system.

Although the recent Great Elephant Census notes that Kafue’s elephant population may be one of the few that is stable or even increasing, poaching continues to be a serious problem, according to the guides. (In the 1960s, Zambia had about 250 000 elephants. Today there are only 10 000 elephants, of which Kafue has about 2 300. Kruger National Park, similar in size, has about 17 000).

We didn’t see one elephant in my (admittedly short) stay of four days, and very little evidence of their movements on the plains. An old dung ball here and there, but that was it.

Cape clawless otter, spotted in the early morning in one of the water channels – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Apparently, when elephants do emerge from the miombo woodlands at sunset, they move quickly across the plains to drink at the rivers, and then head back into the safety of the trees long before morning arrives.

And then there are the lions themselves. Increasingly, because of rampant bushmeat poaching by hungry people on the peripheries, the lions are inadvertently snared. Some survive, some die from the wounds and pain. I interviewed lion researcher Dr. Neil Midlane after my trip, and you can read my interview with him here.

Staying at Busanga Bush Camp and Shumba Camp

I had to leave Busanga after just a few days, but I didn’t want to. Even with the bushfires burning on the horizons, and the poaching problems, I get the feeling that there is much hope, that Busanga could be even more spectacular, if it receives the help it needs. Like most other wilderness areas in Africa, there is so much to admire.

Busanga Bush Camp is the simpler, smaller of the two camps which Wilderness Safaris operate. I prefer it to Shumba, as it’s more open to the surrounding plains – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

NOTE: From a conservation perspective, Busanga (and the rest of Kafue, although I haven’t explored all of it) is one of Africa’s finest wilderness areas. And from a photographic perspective, it ranks as one of my favourite places for wildlife photography. Wilderness Safaris deserve plenty of credit for investing in this remote, wild place. I can recommend Busanga Bush Camp and Shumba Camp to anyone who wants a unique, unforgettable wildlife safari. And by travelling there, you’re making a real difference to its conservation. The camps employ mostly local people, and a percentage of your money goes to anti-poaching operations in the area.

Early morning on the plains, and the usual suspects are up and grazing already – Photograph by Scott Ramsay

Written and Photographed by Scott Ramsay

Scott Ramsay of Love Wild Africa is a photographer and writer in protected areas, national parks and nature reserves in Africa.

Post courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

0 notes

kenyasafarideals-blog · 5 years

Text

Explore Kenya on this 7 Days Kenya Wildlife Safari Tour and Trip to Masai Mara, Nakuru, Amboseli, Tsavo

Kenya Wildlife Safari, Trip & Tour Package

Itinerary

Day 1. Masai Mara Game Reserve. Morning pick up at the airport or city hotel and depart for the Masai Mara National Reserve, which borders Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Every year, between June and September, millions of wildebeests and zebras migrate into the Mara in search of water. The timing of this phenomenon varies, depending on the rains, but they usually start heading back to the Serengeti in October. Whether you see the migration or not, the grassy plains and lush landscape offer a huge variety of game including lions, cheetahs, buffalo and abundant bird life such as ostriches, cranes and storks. Lunch followed by afternoon game drive, Dinner and overnight at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

Day 2. Masai Mara. Breakfast and leave with picnic lunches for a full day game drive inside the Park. Search for Wild game black manned lion for which Mara is famous for, cheetah, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, leopard, grants gazelle are quite common, even the rare rhino might come out of the thicket for you, hyenas are plentiful, Extend your drive to the hippo point where schools of hippo submerge on the approach of vehicles only to surface seconds later to shot and gamble their displeasure as the crocodiles sunbathe on the river banks mouths agape. Between meals there is optional visit to the Maasai villages for an insight to their culture if clients so wish. Meals and overnight at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge.

Optional activities: Masai Village Tour, $25. Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Safari, $450.

Day 3. Lake Nakuru National Park. Breakfast and drive to Lake Nakuru National Park arriving for lunch and later proceed for an afternoon game drive. The Bird Watchers’ Paradise On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, surrounded by wooded and bushy grassland, lies the beautiful Lake Nakuru National Park. Enjoy the wide ecological diversity and varied habitats that range from Lake Nakuru itself to the surrounding escarpment and picturesque ridges. Lake Nakuru National Park is ideal for bird watching and game drives. Dinner and overnight at Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge.

Day 4. Amboseli National Park. Early morning breakfast and depart for Amboseli, Early lunch in Nairobi and proceed through maasai land to Amboseli National Park arriving for late afternoon drive(if time permits). The park is 39,206 hectares (392 km2; 151 sq. mi) in size at the core of an 8,000 square kilometres (3,100 sq. mi) ecosystem that spreads across the Kenya-Tanzania border. Crowned by Mount Kilimanjaro, he highest free-standing mountain in the world, Africa’s highest peak, the Amboseli National Parks is one of Kenya’s most popular parks. The name “Amboseli” comes from a Maasai word meaning “salty dust”, and it is one of the best places in Africa to view large herds of elephants up close. Nature lovers can explore five different habitats here ranging from the dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, wetlands with sulphur springs, the savannah and woodlands. They can also visit the local Maasai community who live around the park and experience their authentic culture. Dinner and overnight at Amboseli Sopa Lodge.

Day 5. Amboseli. Breakfast and proceed for a full day of game viewing drive inside the park. Amboseli is a photogenic Park and hosts great number of game including the lion, elephant and the splendid cheetah. Meals and overnight at Amboseli Sopa Lodge.

Day 6. Tsavo West National Park. Breakfast and depart via shaitani lava flows to Tsavo west arriving for lunch. Afternoon game drive extending to mzima springs. From the sight of fifty million gallons of crystal clear water gushing out of from the under parched lava rock that is the Mzima Springs to the Shetani lava flows, Tsavo West is a beautiful, rugged wilderness. The savannah ecosystem comprises of open grasslands, scrublands, and Acacia woodlands, belts of riverine vegetation and rocky ridges including the Poacher’s Lookout where visitors can see the teeming herds in the plains below. Tsavo West offers some of the most magnificent game viewing in the world and attractions include elephant, rhino, Hippos, lions, cheetah, leopards, Buffalos, diverse plant and bird species including the threatened corncrake and near threatened Basra Reed Warbler. Attractions: The spectacle Mzima Springs is the sight of fifty million gallons of crystal clear water gushing out of from the under parched lava rocks, forming the most welcoming and lovely scene in Africa Ancient lands of Lions, in 1898 the Uganda railway construction was abruptly halted by the two of the most voracious and insatiable man-eating lions appeared upon the scene, and for over nine month waged intermittent warfare against the railway and all those connected with it in the vicinity of Tsavo. A vibrant volcanic arena; molten lava that form Shetani lava spewed from the earth just about 200 years ago and its fiery fury was thought by locals to be work of the Devil. Poacher’s Lookout and roaring rocks; the Park abound the panoramic vintage point from which to view the movement of the herds. Glorious game drives; Tsavo west offers some of the most magnificent game viewing in the world Ngulia Sanctuary; this is where the growing population of highly endangered black rhino are inching from chasm of extinction forced upon them by rampant poaching in the 1960s. Lake Jipe, lies astride Kenya and Tanzania boarder and is teeming with aquatic life, Bird watching I also major activity around the lake. First World War Site-East African Campaign, Perhaps the most bizarre campaign of the world war was fought in the “Bundu” (Bush) – the barely explored wilderness of thorny scrub and dense forest of Tsavo west. This last ‘gentleman war’ was waged under the code of honor-sometimes; or under guerilla tactics adopted from African tribal fighters. Dinner and overnight at Voyager Ziwani Tented Camp.

Day 7. Nairobi. Breakfast and depart with en route game drive arriving Nairobi at around 1500 hours. Drop off at your city hotel / the airport.

Child Rate – Sharing Room with Adults: 0 – 2 Free. 3 – 11 Years – 50% of Adult Rate.

LOW SEASON: 1st April – 30th June – Contact us for Rates.

Inclusive: Transportation in custom tourist safari vehicle (Toyota mini van 4 X 4) with HF Radio communication and pop-up roof for easy viewing and photographing Services of English speaking skilled and experienced driver/guide Full board accommodation on safari Extensive game drives All park entrance fees and government taxes Nairobi airport transfers 1 L bottle mineral water per person per day on game drives Membership with Flying doctors emergency evacuation services

Excluded: Nairobi Hotel Beverages and Alcoholic drinks Tips visas Laundry Airport departure Tax Personal Toiletries Domestic Flights and International flights to and from Nairobi Personal & baggage insurance Optional activities or items of personal nature.

https://www.kenyasafarideals.com/tour/kenya-wildlife-safari/

#kenya tanzania trips africa budgetsafaris kenyabudgetsafaris kenyasafaritours holidaysafaris safari

0 notes

stunningvacationtips · 6 years

Text

Top 10 Tourist Attractions And Vacation Spots in Bali

Immerse on your own in visiting indonesian vacational locations and also destinations in Bali as traveler with their winsome beaches, gorgeous greeneries and historical temples.

Located in the Asian Pacific, the island of Bali is an exotic oriental destination in Indonesia. Bali is amongst the couple of places in the world specifically where you can see an excellent bargain and also do a good deal without having collaborating with up your vacation taking a trip permanently to get there.

Find on your own submersed in authentic Indonesian culture, dancing, and also food. The degree of client service on the island of Bali is amazing and also you'll never ever feel out of area as the citizens strive to aid you obtain acclimatised to the environment. Unwind on the coastline by day, discover the busy night life, as well as then find convenience in several of the world's finest suites as well as hotels. Encounter supreme leisure while taking pleasure in the authentic Indonesian spirit as well as drinking in the superb scenery.

The Best Ten are a fantastic indication of just how effectively laid out Bali is for tourists.Orchid yards, amazing beaches as well as ancient holy places, all these and much more include in the popularity of Bali, a popular Indonesian location. Ideally prepared between islands of Java and also Nusa Tenggara, Bali is amongst the 18,000 islands that together form the complete of Indonesia. A check out to its finest ten traveler attractions is sufficient to learn about its large and also vivid Balinese culture as well as practices. Come and also check out on to understand about the ideal 10 vacationer destinations of Bali.

Things to Do and See

There is a range of choices to do, see as well as enjoy in Bali. For experience, traverse this magical island in search of surprise temples and also old temples-- Tirta Empul Holy place is a traveler fave. For the animal lover, the Elephant Safari Park hosts saved Sumantran elephants that paint and give rides to visitors. Appreciate with Ape Woodland, Beaches, Field trip of Markets, Sunset at Tanah Whole lot, enchanting eating, adventure parks, water palace of lovely yards and calm water-scapes, massage and medspas, dance songs, browsing, cycling as well as cart riding and also nightlife.

Bali's holiday areas and also attractions

1. Pura Besakih

Also called, "Mommy Temple of Bali", Pura Besakih is proudly called a well known visitor destination of Bali. Call it a temple or a shelter of Besakih, this location is considered among the holiest and best Balinese holy places. Establish up on the slopes of Mt. Agung, Pura Besakih houses the Trinity shrines. Pay a visit at this temple to see Brahma, Vishnu as well as Shiva temples along with 18 other separate shelters of distinctive caste teams. A collection of actions leads you to this contemporary temple that comes active on every one of the considerable festivals of Bali.

2. Kintamani

Kintamani was when Bali's best city. It is currently a small community inside the north, ideal succeeding to a lake with created by a volcanic crater. With common Balinese exaggeration, the community has a chain of mountains and also forest about it, like a shed earth. It also has coastlines, and also hot springs.

3. Kuta A lot of individuals begin their holiday in Kuta - in advance of setting out for the remainder of island - or at the least go by means of Kuta on there means somewhere else. On the plus side there's whole lots to do here and persons hardly ever say they had been bored in Kuta. The negatives incorporate a bargain of site visitors, lots of proclaims as well as it is loaded with tourists. Nobody goes to Kuta to see the "actual Bali", they go to Kuta to have some suitable Italian food, purchase some low-cost t-shirts and potentially hit a variety of the touristy attractions.

4. Amlapura North eastern of Denpasar is Amlapura. This is frequently a mix of the appealing modern, the not so contemporary day, plus the old. Amlapura includes the remarkable Water Royal residence, having a great deal of Hindu photos, and also eye-catching gardens. For the culture visitors, a must-see.

5. Jimbaran A pretty kicking back area to stay if you are seeking to avoid the crowds of Kuta but still would love to endeavor into it is maw for some helpful food or buying. It is rather close to the flight terminal so Jimbaran makes an amazing intro to Bali if you would love to spend your at first day or more relaxing by the pool.

6. Denpasar When reviewing concerning the ideal vacationers tourist attractions in Bali, you can not miss out on out its capital, Denpasar. Most reliable identified for its discounted food, this city is commonly a precise buyer's paradise. Those outstanding in negotiating could anticipate to acquire excellent things from its Pasar Badung market. Denpasar additionally gives you to have a peep inside Bali's rich culture as well as background by visiting its Bali Museum.

7. Lovina

Lovina is frequently a place to go to loosen up and take a break. It does not have the destinations of the coastline hotels inside the south, so come all set together with your very own entertainment - publications, kites, video games, whatever you will need.The beach right here - like Sanur - is secured by a reef as well as produces a superb swimming spot for smaller sized youngsters. Yet do not be expecting the considerable swaths of golden sand you saw in Kuta. The sand right here is volcanic (dark black) and rather thin in spots.

8. Tuban Tuban, a former fishing town is but an additionally popular traveler attraction of Bali. For those who desire to see the sunup or sunset in Bali, then Tuban might be the suitable place to see it in all its glory. Tranquil but attractive, this location is still undisturbed from the city hustle bustle. Remaining at Tuban is likewise not a dilemma as there are numerous helpful hotels established on its white sand coastline. Tourists can extremely conveniently reach this area, as it absolutely is positioned at a 5 min walking range from the airport.

9. Ubud Art enthusiasts basically cannot stand up to enjoying the magnificent Balinese paintings at the distinguished Ubud's Museum "Purl Lukisan" in Bali. Look out for a great deal of art galleries and also some definitely attractive modern-day day art functions at Ubud. Aside from "Purl Lukisan", visit "Neka Museum" to see attractive Balinese paints. This attractively well-off place is additionally worth exploring owing to its enjoyable weather round the year.

10. Sanur Sanur has by far one of the most kid-friendly coastline on Bali. The water is shielded by a reef plus the carefully sloping shore is splashed by calm waters (most of the time). A good string of dining establishments and also stores sits a number of hundred yards back from the coastline as well as makes a nice destination for an evening walk.

So, now you recognize what all to discover throughout your Bali trip, remember to pack within your cam to maintain the unforgettable moments of your trip.

When To Go to Bali Bali has advantageous weather all year so the environment should not be a huge consider determining when to go. The completely dry period runs from April to September and is frequently the suitable time to visit. Throughout the damp season there has the tendency to be one significant rainstorm every day (normally early mid-day) that quickly vanishes leaving just considerable puddles on the ground as well as additionally a fresh rain fragrance inside the air. Of higher value for preparing a journey might be the height period months when visitors arrive from Europe, Australia and also Japan. July, August, December as well as January often tend to be the busiest times for the island and also resorts can usually be reserved strong inside the popular coastline resorts - in particular throughout the week of Xmas and New Years. If you watch for the optimal months to visit Bali they would likely be May possibly, June, and also September. The months have most effective weather blended making use of the least tourists

Kid friendly hotels Acquiring kid-friendly resorts in Bali is commonly a snap. The majority of hotels above the spending budget variation have swimming pools as well as a number of the cheapest places will certainly have a smaller one as well. The Balinese kindness is famous as well as it's mosting likely to make nearly any hotel an enticing second-home to most families. Breakfast is included at most hotels in Bali and also will certainly often incorporate platefuls of fresh as well as delicious neighborhood fruit.

Kid friendly restaurants I get Balinese food to be relatively suiting for young children. Often not quite zesty with a lot of rice, noodles and acquainted foods - albeit mixed in an unusual manner. Fruit is commonly a basic enhancement to any type of dish - so do not hesitate to ask for a plate of fruit no matter if you are eating breakfast, lunch or dinner.

#cheap tickets #destination #flights #hotels #trip #vacation

0 notes

carlsonknives · 7 years

Text

Unforgettable Luxury Glamping Holidays at Fir Hill Yurts, Cornwall

youtube

Idyllic countryside with abundant wildflowers, close proximity to dramatic Cornish coastline and a historic estate full of intrigue, and that’s barely scratching the surface. Since being abandoned in the 1940’s, the Fir Hill estate in Colan near Newquay, has recently been transformed into a stunning glamping site, providing stylish traditional Mongolian yurt accommodation.

The Fir Hill yurts are completely off-grid and set within 62 acres of woodland, just 5km from Newquay and a short walk away from Porth Reservoir. There are currently 9 yurts on site, providing comfortable and spacious accommodation, ideal for family holidays.

The Yurt Accommodation

The construction of these traditional Mongolian yurts is perfection. With not a gap in sight and generous use of material layers including thick 100% sheep wool felt insulation, the result is a truly cosy interior, snug during chilly summer nights and yet surprisingly cool during the day.

After a long but pleasant drive and a warm welcome, I settle into my own Tardis-like yurt. Inside I find a kingsize and two double beds, each equally comfortable, along with bedside tables and lanterns. There’s also two large armchairs, and unlike most glamping accommodation I’ve stayed in, there’s also somewhere to hang clothes up and a set of drawers allowing me to tidy away the contents of my bags and make myself at home.

Each yurt is set within its own landscaped grounds, dominated with a spacious decked area which includes a picnic bench. Beyond that, each yurt has its own kitchen shelter containing cutlery, crockery, cookware, a kettle and gas burner.

The camper in me dictates I must be over-prepared for every situation, and I bring my own cool box, crockery and cookware with me. I needn’t have bothered though, everything I need, including a good quality igloo cool box and even kindling for my personal fire pit, is right here.

Each yurt comes with its own well equipped kitchen shelter

My usually invaluable solar power hub proves unnecessary too, as the barn, a funky communal space that guests are encouraged to use, is not only a great space to relax in, but a convenient place to recharge any essential devices.

Despite it being the August Bank holiday weekend, good weather is of course never a given in the UK, but for 5 days straight I awoke to blue skies and blazing sunshine, the ideal weather to enjoy glamping to it’s fullest, and perfect for exploring the grounds of the estate and this part of Cornwall.

The Fir Hill Estate

The estate is a historic treasure trove, rich in archaeological features that provide glimpses into the ancient use of the woodland, including what’s thought to be the remains of a rare Ochre mine, as well as clear evidence of the John Edyvean canal, an ambitious scheme to create a lockless canal sytem, running from Mawgan Porth to St Columb Porth, that was never completed.

I enjoy a lazy afternoon walk through the estate grounds in the company of charming owner, Charlie Hoblyn. As we walk he talks animatedly, revealing future plans, pointing out archaeological features and sharing his seemingly endless knowledge of the trees and plants that we pass.

Charlies words demonstrate a clear love for this place, and his commitment to the land is evident in meticulous woodland management and the planting of hundreds of new trees, ensuring that for every area of ground cleared to accommodate yurts, at least as much has been replanted, and his enthusiasm and passion is infectious.

The sun setting over Porth Reservoir, viewed from the barn

I can think of no better environment for a relaxing, back to nature family holiday, but don’t expect back to basics from this glamping site. The facilities here are excellent.

The barn is a stunning building with the most incredible countryside views that lead the eye down towards Porth Reservoir. Packed full of comfy sofas, stunning wooden tables and a cupboard full of boardgames, the first floor features enormous picture windows; the perfect vantage point from which to view the setting sun.

Inside the barn which guests are free to use

From the secluded woodland setting of the estate, it’s hard to believe the lively coastal town of Newquay is only a few kilometres away. Indeed, the only real clue as to the proximity of the coast are the many wetsuits slung over the small wooden fences that surround each occupied yurt. When I return after a day on the water exploring the dramatic St Agnes coastline, knowing my own wetsuit will soon be drying in the warm evening sunshine is curiously gratifying.

My wetsuit drying in the sunshine after a day on the water

Out and About

Don’t be mistaken into believing that all this part of Cornwall has to offer revolves around the sea though. Whilst the powerful Atlantic is a huge draw to surfers and adrenaline junkies alike, within half an hour in either direction of the Fir Hill, there are an endless number of places to see and things to do.

From walking the superb South West Coast Path, ambling around delightful little fishing villages and sampling fresh Cornish crab, shopping or even trying your hand at local arts and crafts, through to the more obvious crowd pleasers like Newquay Zoo and The Eden Project; the area provides something for absolutely everyone.

Bedruthan Step is a short drive away

I spend my evenings reading, either sitting outside on my deck, or laying on my ridiculously comfortable bed, yurt door flung open, allowing me to glance up every now and again to appreciate the stunning views. The closeness of such ancient woodland is truly calming. The quiet is punctuated by cattle lowing and the plaintive cries of Buzzards; all to the backing of delicate twittering birdsong and the distant carefree sound of children playing.

Enjoying the sun setting after another glorious day

The final verdict

My own five days at the Fir Hill flew by, and a week or more could very easily and comfortably be spent here.

For those seeking an alternative family holiday or for couples wanting a romantic long weekend break at the luxury end of the glamping scale, the Fir Hill offers everything you could want from a glamping holiday, and at the end of your stay, you’ll be sad to leave this slice of idyllic Cornish countryside behind.

Why should you choose the Fir Hill yurts?

The Fir Hill yurts are perfectly located for exploring the north Cornwall coastline. Half an hour south takes you to historic St. Agnes where I booked a superb sea kayaking trip with Koru Kayaking, whilst half an hour north will get you to Padstow and beyond.

The estate is a short drive from Newquay and all of its attractions, I went on the Newquay Sea Safaris seal spotting boat tour and can throughly recommend it.

The Fir Hill estate is stunning and packed full of the historic remnants of the old Manor house and it’s numerous outbuildings. Wild and enchanting, the woodland here is ripe for exploration.

The quality of the yurts is exceptional. Whilst they don’t contain wood burning stoves, their construction is such that even in the colder months, I suspect they would remain comfortably habitable.

The rustic wooden bedframes house ridiculously comfy beds with warm duvets, woolen throws and plump pillows – I promise you will not sleep badly here.

The facilities are excellent and over the coming years are set to get even better, with plans to develop further woodland walkways and to install wood-heated hot tubs.

Generous light, airy and clean shower and toilet rooms (with off-grid power and water heating) are a pleasure to use. Just bring your toiletries, flip flops and a fluffy robe.

A great team including owner Charlie, cousin Phillip and younger Charlie who are full of smiles and happy to chat or answer questions.

Lilly, the adorably placid big grey labradoodle who rolls over for a tummy rub and often pads over to the yurts at breakfast time in hope of a sausage.

Find out more or book your holiday at the Fir Hill Glamping here.

See more photographs of Fir Hill Glamping.

Thank you to Charlie at the Fir Hill for inviting me to stay.

The post Unforgettable Luxury Glamping Holidays at Fir Hill Yurts, Cornwall appeared first on Camping with Style Camping Blog | Activities • Glamping • Travel • Adventure.

Original Source http://www.campingwithstyle.co.uk/unforgettable-luxury-glamping-holidays-at-fir-hill-yurts-cornwall/ For the best knives to use whilst camping check out Carlson Knives http://www.carlsonknives.com/

0 notes

rainbowstargazerlilies · 9 days

Text

Mechs Doll Pattern Notes

At least one person asked in the comments on the raffle form, so here's some quick notes on making the Mechs dolls under the cut!

These are based on a pattern in Mini Knitted Farmyard by Sachiyo Ishii (isbn 978-1782215387). Usually, I use US size 2 knitting needles and DK yarn in the various shades required for each of them. I like having three needles on hand for this pattern. The pattern base is "farmer", but I do pull from other patterns. The author appears to use this same base pattern across several of the books in this series, so if you can't find a copy of this book, the Mini Knitted Cosmos book has variants of this pattern (look at "Ground Staff"), as does Mini Knitted Ocean (look at "Fisherman" patterns).

Specifically, the pattern for doll coats is a modified version of the "vest" pattern under the shepherd doll instructions in the same book (Farmyard). I usually make it slightly longer than listed, and if it's a coat, I'll match the sleeve color. I use the same pattern for vests, just not matching the sleeve color. Once again, there's a version of this under the "Fisherman" pattern in Ocean as well.

The shepherd doll also has the instructions on how to make boots, rather than shoes. I've found that useful for different dolls, and I don't seem to see it in any other places in the series.

TS's hat comes from Mini Knitted Ocean, and is used for one of the fishermen in that book. I've also made TS without, but I like the way it looks with the hat, don't you?

For dolls that have pointed ears, I've pulled from the animal ear patterns in the Mini Knitted Safari book, and somewhat adapted it. It's really, really simple-- cast on two stitches, knit one row, bind off. The bind-off should be pointy. If you want longer ears, knit an extra row or two.

Finally, Raphaella's wings are initially from a different book in the series, Mini Knitted Toys, and I've adapted them from the "fairy" pattern. (Those adaptations are just doing half-double crochet in brown yarn around the outside edge, and then sewing down a crochet chain for the middle brown lines. I also do attach them differently than how the pattern suggests-- flipping them around so that they curve downwards.) This is the only pattern for the Mechs that uses a different size knitting needle (US size 6). I've also done them for other dolls, and I highly recommend doing a fun stitch for texture-- remember that both the back and front of the wings could be visible. Last time, I ended up doing moss stitch on them with some fun colors, and that ended up looking really cool.

Another tip: these will require a yarn needle. I've done the hair by knotting it on or by doing backstitch and loops, and while the backstitch and loops takes more time, the extra time's worth it. Doing that with a crochet hook instead of a yarn needle sounds incredibly time consuming and painful.

As well, while there are instructions for a "farmer's wife" variant with a skirt, I've found it just as easy to either pick up and crochet a skirt around a completed doll, or to increase through the back loop and set aside all increased stitches for later during that second row of the shirt color, and then use that to knit the skirt later. Either way, make sure that you increase appropriately as you make the skirt-- too many, and it'll ruffle.

If you're interested in the series, I'd highly recommend Woodland and Safari if you want to make animals, and Farmyard if you're interested in people of various sizes. I've made a lot of the patterns in these books, and they're fun to make and to experiment with. Ocean also has a good variety of fish and similar creatures, which could be fun depending on your interests.

If you end up trying to make any of these dolls, feel free to ask me questions! I'm sure I've got more tips, but I can't think of them, and they'd probably not make much sense out of context anyway. In short, have fun!

#stargazer crafts #stargazer's four inch friends #mechs dolls raffle

5 notes · View notes